Section 274 of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Whoever adulterates any article of food or drink, so as to make such article noxious as food or drink, intending to sell such article as food or drink, or knowing it to be likely that the same will be sold as food or drink, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees, or with both.
Summary
- Punishes the adulteration of food or drink to make it "noxious" (harmful).
- Applies to those who intend to sell the item as food or drink.
- Covers those who know it is likely that the adulterated item will be sold as food or drink.
- Sets the maximum punishment at six months of jail, a fine of up to five thousand rupees, or both.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. What does "noxious" mean in BNS Section 274 regarding food?
In Section 274 of the BNS, noxious means making the food or drink harmful, poisonous, or unfit for human consumption.
2. What is the fine for food adulteration under Section 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?
Under Section 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the fine can extend to five thousand rupees.
3. Does Section 274 apply if I don't intend to sell the food?
No, Section 274 of the BNS requires either an "intention to sell" or knowledge that it is "likely that the same will be sold" as food or drink.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, the adulteration must make the food or drink:
Q2.What is the maximum fine specified in BNS Section 274?
Q3.To be guilty under Section 274 of the BNS, a person must adulterate food with what intent?
Q4.Comparing Section 271 (Negligent disease spread) and Section 274 (Adulteration), which has a specific maximum fine amount mentioned in its text?